The symptom of peeling gums often leads patients to ask “why are my gums peeling?” This can make people feel deeply uncomfortable, self-conscious, and even scared. However, with a proper medical diagnosis, this can easily be treated in most cases if not left too long. Peeling gums is a condition characterized by the outer layer of the gum tissue coming off, leaving behind a raw and sensitive area. This phenomenon might be alarming and quite uncomfortable to experience.
Why shouldn’t you ignore your peeling gums? The answer lies in the complications that can arise if left untreated. As underlined by Dhadse et al. (2013), untreated peeling gums can lead to worsening oral health, including painful eating experiences, loss of teeth, and in some cases, bacterial infections spreading to other parts of the body. So, next time you notice that your gums are peeling, do not take it lightly. It’s a clear sign that you need to visit a dental professional and prioritize your oral health.
What are Peeling Gums?
Peeling gums, a situation when yourgums are peeling, is when the outer layer of gum tissue begins to come off, leaving the gums raw and sensitive. This condition might be alarming and quite uncomfortable, necessitating a thorough understanding and timely treatment. According to a study by Suresh et al. (2018), the sloughing of gums or gums peeling is not an isolated symptom but can be a sign of a more significant health issue, such as oral infections, gum diseases, vitamin deficiencies, or reactions to certain oral hygiene products.
What Causes Gum Peeling/Sloughing Gums?
The causes of gum peeling or sloughing gums can be multifaceted, requiring careful examination to identify the underlying issues correctly.
One of the most common causes of peeling gums is an oral infection, like gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions result from an accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on your teeth. If left untreated, these infections can lead to inflamed and bleeding gums, potentially culminating in the sloughing of gums or gums peeling.
Another prevalent cause is a reaction to certain dental products like toothpaste or mouthwash. If these products contain ingredients that your body reacts adversely to, you might experience irritation, leading to your gums peeling.
Also, certain systemic conditions like lichen planus, pemphigus vulgaris, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome can lead to sloughing of gums. These conditions can cause your body’s immune system to attack the tissues in your mouth, leading to gum peeling.
Additionally, vitamin deficiencies, specifically vitamin B and C, can cause gums peeling. These vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining the health of your gums. Thus, a deficiency can lead to symptoms like gum inflammation and peeling.
Stress and hormonal changes can also contribute to the issue. High levels of stress can manifest in physical symptoms, including oral health issues like gum peeling. Meanwhile, hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can affect oral health, leading to symptoms like inflamed or peeling gums.
The cause behind the question, “why are my gums peeling?” can indeed vary widely, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional dental advice when you notice such a symptom.
How to Fix Peeling Gums?
Fixing peeling gums, whether your gums are peeling due to an infection or some other factor, begins with an accurate diagnosis. Hence, if you observe your gums peeling, the initial step should always be to consult a dental professional for an in-depth oral examination.
During the checkup, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and may inquire about your medical history, daily oral hygiene habits, diet, and potential stress levels, as these elements can influence the state of your oral health. They might also take dental X-rays to gain a more detailed understanding of your oral health status.
If the peeling gums are due to an oral infection like gingivitis or periodontitis, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure, also known as scaling and root planing. This procedure removes plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth and beneath your gum line, curbing the progression of gum disease.
Your dentist may prescribe medications such as antimicrobial mouthwashes, antibiotic gels, or oral antibiotics to combat any existing oral infection. Topical gels or ointments are sometimes recommended to provide relief from irritation or inflammation caused by your gums peeling.
If your peeling gums are due to an allergic reaction to a specific toothpaste or mouthwash, you might need to switch to a different product. Your dentist can guide you on suitable products that won’t irritate your gums.
Furthermore, if the cause of the sloughing of gums is a vitamin deficiency, incorporating vitamin-rich foods into your diet or taking supplements could be a part of the solution. For more severe cases, dental procedures might be necessary. For example, if gum disease has progressed significantly, gum graft surgery might be recommended to restore the gum tissue.
Above all, enhancing your oral hygiene routine is essential in addressing peeling gums. Regular brushing and flossing can significantly reduce plaque build-up, preventing further gum issues. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also crucial to maintaining good oral health and addressing any issues, such as peeling gums, early on.
It’s crucial to remember that treating peeling gums isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Each treatment plan is personalized, taking into account the individual’s overall health, the severity of the gum peeling, and the underlying cause. Hence, prompt professional consultation is paramount if you find your gums are peeling.
If you’re asking yourself, “Why are my gums peeling?” or if you notice sloughing of gums, it’s time to pay attention to your oral health. Don’t ignore the signs. Visit our dental professionals at ivanovortho.com and schedule your appointment today.